Mesothelioma is a type of cancer originating from the cells lining the lung or peritoneum. It is often associated with asbestos exposure but the latency period between asbestos contact and disease diagnosis can be several decades. Patients with pleural mesothelioma can experience shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss, or cough. A diagnosis of mesothelioma is important to optimize medical treatment and the option of more aggressive surgery may be considered for selected patients as part of a multi-modality treatment plan. ^1,2

For patients with mesothelioma who suffer from fluid within the thoracic cavity, Professor Christopher Cao offers minimally invasive pleurodesis to prevent fluid re-accumulation and improve symptoms of shortness of breath. He also works closely with specialized medical oncologists from Sydney and regional NSW to ensure the optimal form of medical therapy, such as immunotherapy, is provided for the appropriately selected patient.